The [[Solar Cookers World Network]] is an alliance of more than [[:Category:NGOs|500 non-governmental organizations]] (NGOs), [[:Category:Manufacturers and vendors|170 manufacturers]], and [[:Category:Individuals|500 individuals]] actively promoting solar cooking in more than [[Countries|100 countries]]. This wiki-based site allows Network participants to share information and collaborate on projects and research. Solar cooking is an important part of [[Integrated Cooking]], which also includes the use of [[fuel-efficient woodstove]]s and [[heat-retention cooker]]s. If you are a solar cooking promoter, designer, or manufacturer, and you would like '''to be included in the Network''', fill out this [http://solarcooking.org/join/joinSCWNet.htm online form].

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=='''Solarcookingnewsfrom around the world'''==

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==February2013==

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[[File:GACC_Forum_2013_photo.jpg|right|200px]]

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*{{Event}}'''March 18-22, 2013: (Phnom Penh, Cambodia)''' The [[Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves]] is sponsoring the '''Clean Cooking Forum 2013''', to be held in [[Cambodia]]. As with the five Biennial Partnership for Clean Indoor Air Forums, this will be an excellent opportunity for the household energy community to come together and share what is working around the world, what is causing it to work, and what we can do more of, better, or differently. This will an important event for solar cooking promoters to attend, share information, and show unity in a common mission. [[Julie Greene]], the Executive Director of [[Solar Cookers International]], will be attending and acting as representative for the Solar Cookers World Network. She has offered to any Network member wishing to address a particular concern, but unable to attend, to please [mailto:julie@solarcookers.org contact her] to pass along a discussion topic. [http://www.cleancooking2013.org Registration information...] See other [[Calendar of events|events]].

*'''The Solar Food Processing Network meets to discuss international standards''' - The [[Solar Food Processing Network]] (SFPN) held a regional workshop in January 2013 at the Muni Seva Ashram in Goraj, Vadodara, Gujarat, [[India]]. This gathering was a follow-up to the 2009 AFPN conference held in Indore, India in 2010. Workshop participants heard from food marketing and technology experts. Conference organizers, [[Deepak Gadhia]] and [[Rolf Behringer]] held discussions on local and international marketing, village industries, packaging, policy interventions, R&D, and effective monitoring and evaluation of projects. Attendees discussed the formation of an international solar food standard and shared their own practical experiences using solar technology for food processing. Visit the [http://www.solarfood.org Solar Food Processing Network] to see a muscial video of the event and videos of solar food processing projects in [[BurkinaFaso]].

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==March 2015==

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*'''New solar cooking organization in India''' - On January 23, 2015 [[Solar Cookers India]] was formed. [[Janak McGilligan|Dr. Janak Palta McGilligan]] has graciously offered her services as the Honorary Executive Director of this new organization, which will work in close partnership with [[Solar Cookers International]].

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[[File:Sustainable_Rural_life_Hot_Pot,_2-13-13.jpg|thumb|295px|Workshop participants receive their [[HotPot]]solarcookerfromSustainable Rural Life in [[Mexico]].]]

*'''ThedurableHotPotsolarpanel cooker has worked well in Mexico''' [http://fmcn.org/sustainable-rural-life/?lang=en Sustainable Rural Life] is the new face of the HotPot Initiative that was launched by the [[MexicanFundforthe Conservation ofNature]] in2003.Delivering[[HotPot]]solarcookersandtrainingcommunitieshowtousethemhasserved as an effective introduction to clean cooking, andhasprovidedanalternativetoburning [[fuelwood]] in indigenous communities around the country.Approximately20,000HotPots have been distributed throughout sixteen states in [[Mexico]]. Lastyear,464 were purchased by MFCN and deliveredbylocal partners, and 445 [[fuel-efficientwoodstove]]sofvarioustypeswere also delivered between March and September. At SRL they believe that using the HotPot, togetherwithfuel-efficientcookstoves,isthe best option to improve cooking habitsinMexico. Read more at [[Media:Mexico_Sustainable_rural_life,_2-13-13.pdf|Sustainable Rural Life: Update 2012]].

*'''Apply for the BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards:''' [[Solar Cookers International]] has a unique opportunity to nominate projects from SCInet members for the2015 BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards. The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards seek to recognize and encourage world-class research and artistic creation, awarding contributions of lasting impact for theiroriginality,theoretical significance, and ability to push back the frontiers of the known world. For consideration for nomination, please [mailto:info@solarcookers.org email] Solar Cookers International with the Subject Line “BBVA Awards” for nomination instructions. Final applications must be received no later than May 1, 2015. All materials must be in English. [http://www.fbbva.es/TLFU/tlfu/ing/microsites/premios/fronteras/presentacion/index.jsp Read more...]

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*'''United Nations partners with the Rockefeller Foundation to showcase women’s role in solving climate change''' - In September 2012, the UN announced that the Rockefeller Foundation had awarded a grant to the [[United Nations Climate Change Secretariat]] to launch, Momentum for Change: Women for Results, an initiative to inform governments, the media and the public about “the role of women in solving climate change”. According to the announcement: “The use of efficient energy systems at the household level (e.g. solar cooking stoves and ovens) can reduce emissions and harness the potential of women as actors in the overall solution to climate change.” The mention of solar cookers in the Rockefeller Initiative may help to raise the profile of and attract additional funding for existing and future solar cooking projects. Applications will be accepted beginning March 8, 2013, International Women’s Day. [[United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change|Read more about the program and how to qualify...]]

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==January2013==

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==February2015==

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*'''Survey participants are being recruited to document solar cooking use in the USA''' - Natalia Blackburn of Blackburn Engineering is conducting a survey to begin to determine how solar cooking usage may be able to reduce traditional consumer energy demand in the [[USA]]. While individual savings may be small, when the big picture is considered, Natalia believes that wide use of solar cookers can add up to substantial savings for utilities. The objective of this study is to develop a set of protocols to measure energy savings and dollar savings attributable to the use of solar cookers in U.S. residential households. The survey will be conducted with a fifteen-minute phone interview, or the group of twenty-five questions can be answered by email. Respondents will be contacted via email to set up an interview. If you are a resident of the USA and have been solar cooking for at least eighteen months, consider participating in this pioneering effort by emailing [mailto:natalia.a.blackburn@gmail.comnatalia.a.blackburn@gmail.com]. Natalia hopes to complete data collection by the end of February, 2013. [[USA Solar Survey|More information...]]

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[[File:ISESlogo.png|right|220px]]

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*{{Event}}'''International Solar Energy Society webinar on Solar Food Processing for Income Generation''' - On March 11, the [[International Solar Energy Society]] (ISES) will be hosting a webinar on how [[solar food processing]] can be used for [[income generation]]. "Expert speakers will show examples of how solar food processing can be a profitable business venture. The panelist speakers will present case studies where individuals and companies use solar cooking techniques to earn their living and have made a successful and professional business." Presenters include:

[[File:WorldsLargestSolarCookingClass|thumb|right|300px|2,044middleschoolstudentslearntopreparelunch with solarcooking.]]

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*'''ApplyfortheSEEDAward''' - The SEED Awards recognize "the most promising, innovativeandlocally-ledstart-upsocialandenvironmental enterprises in countries with developingand emerging economies. The independent SEED International Jury of experts selects enterprises which have the potential to make real improvements in poverty eradication and environmental sustainability while contributing to a greener economy." Apply by March 31, 2015. [http://www.seed.uno/awards/about.html Read more...]

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*'''World'slargestsolar cooking class takes place in India''' - On January 19, 2013, middle school students gathered on the grounds of JES College in Jalna, [[India]] to be trained in the use of a simple [[solar panel cooker]]. After a quick breakfast, and guidance from 205 trainers, a record-breaking 2,044 students each assembled his or her own solar cooker and placed prepared ingredients inside to cook. After speaker presentations, the students were able to enjoy the lunch they had cooked themselves. This event, sponsored by [[Simplified Technology for Life]], demonstrates that India is quite serious about introducing solar cooking to young students.

[[File:CookingTraditional African Cornmeal in a Solar Cooker (Filmed in Chad in 2009)-0|thumb|right|300px|Traditional African Cornmeal in a Solar Cooker, filmed at the [[Touloum refugee camp]] in [[Chad]].]]

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==January2015==

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*'''Thissimplesolarcookercookswellleft unattended, providing time for other activities''' - Theaccompanyingvideowasmadein2009 by [[Patricia McArdle|PatMcArdle]]and [[Karyn Ellis]] at the [[TouloumRefugee Camp]] in eastern [[Chad]], and features the [[CooKit]]solarcooker. It shows how the traditional cornmeal porridge is well-suited to the slow even baking provided by the [[solar panel cooker]].The cooking food does not require the constant stirring of cooking over an open fire, allowing the women to spend time in the shade pursuing business opportunities, talking with friends, or completing other tasks.

[[File:Solar_Circle_program_in_Tanzania,_1-10-13.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Solar Circle]] public service exchange program in [[Tanzania]]]].

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*'''Solar Circle uses barter system to distribute 3000 solar cookers in Tanzania''' - The NGO [[Solar Circle]] has learned many things from their solar cooking program in Masasi, southern [[Tanzania]]. People will use solar cookers if they are efficient and affordable, which is often a problem for subsistence farmers who are most in need of the cookers even when the cookers are heavily subsidized. However, they have also learned that people will work hard to earn a solar cooker. The group has created a bartering system with community leaders. The community chooses a service project and the beneficiaries organize and oversee the effort. Participants earn an solar oven for their involvement. So far, the program has distributed more than 3000 solar ovens, and built 40 houses for people who are sick, elderly, widowed, or disabled. Because the community chooses the project and beneficiary, there’s an eagerness to work together. Surrounding villages have heard of the cookers and the program, so spreading the word has been easy. They cannot keep up with demand. The barter program relies on external help with finances, but community service represents the same effort that of money earned in outside employment. Solar Circle values that effort, and raises what money it can from friends to expand the program. {{FeaturedProjects}}

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[[File:Solar_Cooking_in_China,_SHE_report_photo,_1-9-13.jpg|thumb|275px|Residents in northwestern [[China]] using their [[parabolic solar cooker]]]]

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*'''Large-scale use of solar cookers in northwestern China shows promise''' - [[Solar Household Energy]] has tracked the Chinese government's efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the region, because in rural [[China]] the predominant fuel for cooking and heating is usually coal. The government has utilized the carbon credit trading program of the [[Clean Development Mechanism]] to encourage investors to become involved, and results have proven to support a profitable business model. At this point, it is estimated over two million people are benefiting from receiving and using 500,000 [[parabolic solar cooker]]s. The thermal efficiency of the solar cookers averages 65% compared with 12.3% for traditional unimproved coal fires. It is estimated the solar cooker use has reduced emissions equivalent to taking 200,000 automobiles off the road. Manufactured at a unit cost of $44USD, the cookers are locally manufactured, require no externally sourced parts, and components are recyclable. For those who perceive solar cooking as happening only at a village level, this report confirms that solar cooking continues to grow as a valuable resource to significantly help reduce global carbon emissions. Read more details of the report at [[Media:China-cdm_solar_cooking_project_paper(2013-01).pdf|Solar Cooking in China: A CDM Project]]. {{FeaturedProjects}}

*'''Celebrity chef José Andrés wants to cook cleaner this year''' - Writing in National Geographic, [[JoséAndrés]] discusseshis New Year's Resolutions which include the goal to "cook cleaner"! [http://theplate.nationalgeographic.com/2015/01/28/jose-andres-my-new-years-resolutions/Readarticle...]

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*'''Solar cooking promoter adds photovoltaic cells to a solar box cooker''' - The [[Electro Solar Cooker]] is being produced by the [[Association pour le Développement de l'Energie Solaire]] (ADES), a Swiss nonprofit that promotes solar cooking in [[Madagascar]]. ADES recognized another solar energy opportunity that would work well with their solar cooking promotion. As long as the solar cooker is used for a few hours each day for cooking, why not build in strips of photovoltaic cells to create some electricity? The power is stored in batteries attached under the cooker. Fully charged, the unit can power 12 volt lights or a radio for a few days and recharge cellphones. The multiple functions may compliment and encourage the use of this solar appliance.

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==December2012==

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[[File:Solar_Cooking_in_the_Sahel_map,_1-19-15.png|thumb|SolarCooking in the Sahel - ''NOWCAST''|300px]]

*'''Available sunshine in the Sahel region of Africa documented''' - Authors, Beth Newton, Sophie Cowie, [[Derk Rijks]], Jamie Banks, Helen Brindley, and John h. Marsham have published a well-documented analysis of the potential sunshine available for solar cooking in the Sahel region, particularly in northern [[Chad]]whereanumberof Sudanese [[refugee camps]] are located. [[TchadSolaire]] has been training both refugees and the indigenous population to solar cook in the region since 2005. Even along river population centers where clouds tend to form, solar cooking is possible for over 330 days a year. Read more: [[Media:Solar_Cooking_in_the_Sahel,_NowCast,_1-19-15.pdf|Solar Cooking in the Sahel]] - ''NOWCAST''

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*'''Solar cooking has created a business opportunity for a group of women in Zambia''' - The [[Solar Health and Education Project]] (SHEP) has initiated a project at a community-based nursery school in Livingstone, [[Zambia]] for unschooled mothers. Previously, their only source of income had been illegally making charcoal. During the course of the program, they learned how to make and use the [[CooKit]] solar cooker as an income generating activity. Thier next step was to create a registered group called [[Solar Ventures]] (SV). They have been holding SHEP-funded workshops at clinics, schools, agricultural shows (where they won 1st place for the most interesting booth in 2011), and government-sponsored functions on energy and conservation. The group was also invited to Lusaka to run a three-day workshop for a [[United Kingdom|UK]] based nonprofit organization. Without question, their lives are different now since their introduction to solar cooking.

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[[File:Indoor_Air_Polution_map-deaths.jpg|thumb|300px|Annualdeathsfrom[[indoorairpollution]] by region]]

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*[[File:Keshav Srushti 1.png|thumb|right|350px|ThousandsofstudentsgatherinMumbai, India for a record-breaking solar cooking event.]]'''15,000 students in Mumbai solar cook and set world-record''' - In an event organized by [[Keshav Srushti]], 15,000 students from 80 schools in Mumbai, [[India]] set a new world record for the largest-ever solar cooking gathering. Each student was given a solar cooker and taught how to assemble and use it as part of a national campaign to spread awareness of the importance of solar technology. C Vidyasagar Rao, governor of {{State|Maharashtra}} and Ashish Shelar, minister of state, Power, Coal & New Renewable Energy, attended the record-setting gathering. Read more at: [http://www.iamin.in/en/mumbai-north-west/news/over-15000-students-create-new-world-record-solar-cooking-50453 Over 15,000 students create a new world-record in solar cooking]

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*'''New study estimates four million deaths globally from household cooking smoke occur each year''' - The recently released "Global Burden of Disease 2010", funded by the Gates Foundation and just published in [http://www.thelancet.com/themed/global-burden-of-disease The Lancet], comes to this conclusion, and is double the previous accepted estimate. The study isolated the effects of [[Indoor air pollution|cooking smoke]] only. There appears to be a shift from communicable children's diseases to non-communicable disease in adult populations as the major health threat affecting developing countries. The cooking problem is compounded by the fact that achieving a fifty percent reduction in cooking smoke does not correlate to a fifty percent reduction in respiratory disease. Substantial smoke reduction is required to see significant improvement. Read more about the [http://www.cleancookstoves.org/media-and-events/press/new-study-estimates-4-million-from-household-cooking-smoke-each-year.html cooking related airqualityfindings] from the [[GlobalAllianceforCleanCookstoves]] press release.

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[[File:R20-bakery-March-2014.jpg|175px|thumb|[http://regions20.org/about/news/121-invitation-to-tender-for-solar-ovens-under-the-framework-of-our-solar-bakery-project-in-burundiRegions20] inagurates the new [[solarbakery]]projectinBurundi.]]

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*'''The solar bakery project in Burundi is up and running!''' - Each solar oven for the new [[bakery]] in Gitega, [[Burundi]], is capable of baking hundreds of loaves of bread each day. The ovens will allow the users to save over 150 tons of [[firewood]] each year, which results in the reduction of around 277 tons of [[Greenhouse effect|greenhouse gas emissions]] annually. The project creates a new economic opportunity for the local bakers, now in a smoke-free setting. Read more at: [http://regions20.org/about/news/154-r20-and-local-partner-cirid-host-inauguration-ceremony-of-solar-bakery-project-in-gitega-burundi R20 and local partner, CIRID, host inauguration ceremony of solar bakery project in Gitega, Burundi]

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[[File:KoZon_Mali_November_2012.jpg|right|200px]]

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==December 2014==

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*'''A successful Integrated Cooking project cooking in Ségou, Mali''' - In 2009, [[KoZon]], a Dutch NGO promoting solar cooking in the Sahel, and [[AFIMA]], a Malian NGO promoting the development of rural women, began a joint project in Ségou, a region of [[Mali]] where solar cookers had not been introduced. In five villages (Dioro, Babougou, Koila Bamanan, Kominé, Soké), they trained four groups of 25 women (selected by the village chiefs) in the practice of [[Integrated Cooking]]. They received kits containing: two [[CooKit]]s, to cook meals when the sun shines; a [[fuel-efficient woodstove]], for use when there’s no sun; and a [[heat-retention cooker]] to allow even more food to be cooked in the first two. In addition to a short hands-on training workshop, the project ensured that all participants were visited several times after the course to solve problems, and provide extra tips, and encouragement. In the final evaluation, in May 2012, external experts established that more than 80% of the participants--in some villages nearly 100%--used these technologies daily. As intended, they are now saving some 1,800 tons of fuel wood per year. The evaluators also found that many women appreciate having more free time each day, since they do not have to tend a fire when solar cooking or using the heat-retention cooker. They use their time for other activities including running small businesses. Buying less firewood also saves them a lot of money. It’s no surprise that the evaluators spoke of integrated cooking as a great means of relieving poverty! {{FeaturedProjects}}

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[[File:Average_co2_concentrations_Oct-Nov.jpg|right|400px]]

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*'''Latest Nasa data shows elevated CO<sub>2</sub> levels over Africa and South America''' - According to [http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-30399073 this BBC article], "Also apparent are the higher concentrations over South America and southern Africa. These are likely the result of biomass burning in these regions."

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[[File:SolSource_S1.jpg|thumb|200px|The [[SolSourceS1]]]]

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*'''Solar Cookers International remembers Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis''' - As co-founder of [[JewishWorld Watch]], Rabbi Schulweis was a visionary behind efforts like the Solar Cooker Project to empower and [[Touloum Refugee Camp|protect refugee women]] fleeing the Darfur crisis. He will be missed. [http://www.jewishjournal.com/obituaries/article/rabbi_harold_m._schulweis_world_renown_innovative_synagogue_leader_89 His obituary] is available online.

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*'''One Earth Designs introduces their new parabolic solar cooker''' - Working with rural communities in western [[China]], [[One Earth Designs]] (OED), a Beijing/Hong Kong-based company, founded by Americans [[Catlin Powers]] and [[Scot Frank]], has developed the [[SolSource S1]], a portable parabolic solar cooker designed for use by nomadic communities. The S1 can boil a liter of water in ten minutes. Durable and weather resistant materials ensure a longer lifespan. It has a total weight of 18 kilos including a sturdy base design capable of withstanding the high winds typically encountered in the Himalayas. OED’s other solar cooker design, the [[SolSource S2]] will be the world's first temperature adjustable solar cooker with six discrete settings up to 1,000 degrees Celsius. It will provide users with the capacity to generate electricity, heat their homes, [[Water pasteurization|purify their water]] and cook with stored solar energy at night or on cloudy days.

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*'''Startedtwelveyearsago,thisChilean solar restauranthasbecomeadesiredtouristdestination''' - The[[Delicias del Sol]] restaurant,known for servingexcellent food, has become a tourist destination for the village of Villaseca, [[Chile]].Begunin2000with an initial seating capacity of sixteen, the solar restaurant now seats 120. The dry central valley area receives over 300 days of sunshine a year, andlike similar areas, traditionalfuelsourcesarebecomingevermorescarceandexpensive.Thetourists enjoy viewing the solar kitchen atwork. Findoutabout many other solar restaurantsandbakeries[[Solarrestaurantsandbakeries|here]].[[File:Restaurant'sOvensPowered by the Sun|thumb|right|300px|The[[DeliciasdelSol]]restaurant has become a tourist destination for the village of Villaseca, [[Chile]]in2012.]]

*'''Lapin Kulta Solar Kitchen Restaurant featured in The Guardian''' - [[Lapin Kulta Solar Kitchen Restaurant]], the traveling solar restaurant from Catalan designer [http://ca.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mart%C3%AD_Guix%C3%A9 Martí Guixé], Chef Antto Melasniemi and Lapin Kulta beer, was featured in an article in The Guardian as an innovative user of solar energy. The piece discusses the journey of this experimental solar restaurant, including how they were able to cook in [[Finland]] in -15°C. Also featured are new innovations in photovoltaic technology, a new apartment in Hamburg, [[Germany]] which grows algae for fuel with solar energy, and simple method for water disinfection. [http://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/2014/dec/09/we-want-the-black-hole-of-sunlight-solar-power-breaks-new-frontiers?CMP=share_btn_tw Read article...]

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*'''Alternative energy funding groups offer options for technology promoters''' - The International Renewable Energy Agency(IRENA) is welcoming online applications with project summaries for concessional loans worth USD 50 million from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) to facilitate renewable energy projects in developing countries, in the first of seven funding cycles totalling USD 350 million. Renewable energy projects must be government-led or government-guaranteed. Online applications close on 12 January 2013, 17:00 (Abu Dhabi local time). [http://www.irena.org/adfd More information...] The [[GlobalAlliance for Clean Cookstoves]] isalso offering funding possibilities for new businesses. The Alliance’s Spark Fund (Fund) launches its first round of funding with this Request for Proposal (RFP) as part of the strategyto strengthen supply and enhance demand in the cookstove and fuels sector through innovation and tailored entrepreneurial capacity development. Unfortunately the final submission date is January 10, 2013. [http://www.cleancookstoves.org/funding-opportunities/spark-fund-i.htmlMoreinformation...]

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[[File:Basin-from-above-web.jpg|thumb|330px|[[BjornQorn]] makespopcorn for sale with their[[:Category:In-the-groundsolarcookerdesigns|In-the-groundsolarcooker]].]]

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*'''Another business uses solar cooking to prepare their product''' - New-member [[Bjorn Qorn]] located in {{state|New York}}, [[USA]], has created a large [[:Category:In-the-ground solar cooker designs|In-the-ground]] solar cooker to cook their locally-harvested corn for sale as popcorn.

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*'''JewishWorldWatch, originatorof the Solar Cooker Project for Sudanese refugees, reviews their current programs at several of the refugee camps in Chad''' – As a result of a joint security force between [[Chad]] and [[Sudan]], violence against women has declined some since the project began seven years ago. [[Cord]], their partner at the [[Farchana Refugee Camp|Farchana refugee camp]], sees solar cooking asa way to keep girls in school, and not spending hours finding [[fuelwood]] for cooking. For others, the project has meant help for the environment and the air quality conditions for women previously using open fires. When the [[Jewish World Watch]] contingent first visited the camps many years ago, the refugees had just arrived and the encampment was meant to be temporary. The hope and expectation was that within a few months or a couple of years at most; they would return to their homes. But now, seven years later, it is clear that returning to Darfur is not a reality and the camps are turning into permanent settlements. As a result, the programs for the refugees must begin to move away from survival resources and begin to address ways of achieving self-sufficiency and permanence. In other words, helping to create a life, not an existence. Future larger scale solutions will be needed to address and benefit the surrounding communities, as well as the refugee camps, to help with the integration of the Sudanese residents. [http://www.huffingtonpost.com/diana-buckhantz/jewish-world-watch-solar-cooker-project_b_2259135.html Read more...]

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'''Foroldernews, pleasesee [[Solar cooking newsarchive]].'''<br />

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'''For all news added to any page on the site see [[Admin:News log|News log]].'''

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*'''War weary citizens in Iraq to receive solar cookers''' - During a recent visit to villages in the Najaf-Karbala region of [[Iraq]], a trustee of the [[Lady Fatemah Trust]] (LFT) found that villagers were using two methods for cooking: The majority of families, living in abject poverty, use open [[fuelwood]] fires for cooking, heating and lighting, while a slightly more affluent minority uses appliances fueled by kerosene. In the first phase of this project, LFT intends to provide solar cookers to families living in the villages surrounding Karbala Barakat al-Zahra district, Al-Mahdiyeh Village One and Two, the al-Nedhal and al-Wala’ neighborhoods, as well as to families living on isolated desert farms. About 7000 [[solar panel cooker]]s will be needed to provide every family in the region with a cooker. The cookers to be used are an improved version of the [[Cookit]] solar cooker made from [[Plastic fluteboard|plastic fluteboard]] and manufactured by [[Matthew Rollins]]. Total project cost will amount to £105,000.00. [http://www.ladyfatemahtrust.org/appeals-by-country/iraq/453-eid-al-fitr-appeal-ease-the-burden-of-poverty-and-preserve-the-endangered-environment-of-iraq-provision-of-solar-cookers-to-7000-poor-rural-families More information...]

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==November 2012==

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*'''Regional Solar Food Processing Network to be established in India''' - [[Rolf Behringer]] reports that the German NGO [[WISIONS]] has agreed to support the establishment in [[India]] of the first regional [[Solar Food Processing Network]]. A workshop to inaugurate this effort will take place in early 2013 ([[Events|date and location to be announced]]). The aim of the Solar Food Processing Network (SFPN) is to establish a global network of interested parties (NGOs, governments, farmers, and manufacturers) to develop and promote efficient methods of solar food processing and conservation. These are intended to help reduce poverty, improve local economic opportunities and health, and decrease environmental damage. In countries with high solar insolation, effective solar thermal production technologies will contribute to the sustainable development of small rural communities. SFPN is managed by the German NGO [[Solare Zukunft]] (Solar Future). It is financially supported by WISIONS, an initiative of the Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy to foster practical sustainable energy projects.

*'''Global advocate for solar cooking increases awareness''' - [[Solar Household Energy]] (SHE) has again had a busy summer and fall. [[Louise Meyer]] provided solar cooking demonstrations, including to the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Regina Benjaminto, and assisted the [http://nature.org Nature Conservancy] in [[Haiti]] to teach the [[Integrated Cooking Method]] as part of its larger reforestation program in the region. It is exciting and encouraging to see organizations such as SHE taking the promotion of solar cooking the next step, to increased global awareness. [http://www.she-inc.org/art.php?id=153 Read more about their efforts...]

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*'''The latest issue of Solar Cooker Review is now available online'''

* '''TanzSolar wins the Green Africa Award for Business''' - In June of this year the annual [http://www.earthmauritius.org/#!__green-awards Green Africa Award] for Business was awarded to [[TanzSolar]] for championing environmental change in Africa. TanzSolar received the Award for bringing clean, renewable solar energy and electric lighting to villagers in Tanzania. TanzSolar received the Green Business & Environmental Management Award, one of ten categories. “We are thrilled and this is an enormous honor to receive such an award. It’s nice to be recognized for our hard work in solar energy in Africa,” said [[Marianne Walpert]], Founder and Director of TanzSolar.

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*'''South Dakota foundation makes plans to have more solar cookers available in Haiti''' - [[Haiti Solar Oven Project]] board members and partners met the last weekend in October to set goals for 2013. In the next fiscal year, Haiti Solar Oven Partners will provide 2,280 units to families in [[Haiti]] participating in training and ownership of a solar oven.

*'''Former SCI board member Pat McArdle is interviewed on Emerald Planet''' - During the interview [[Pat McArdle]] discusses the history and mission of [[Solar Cookers International]], the importance of increasing access to solar cooking technology, Bob Metcalf's [[Portable Microbiology Laboratory]] for testing water in remote locations, the work of [[Jewish World Watch]] in [[Chad]], and more.

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==October 2012==

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[[File:Solar Cooked Snowbank Chicken Soup-0|right|300px]]

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*'''Recent natural disasters show need for emergency cooking and water pasteurization''' - [[Bangladesh]] floods and landslides, June 2012; [[India]] floods July, 2012; [[Haiti]] floods and mudslides August, 2012; More India floods September, 2012; [[Vietnam]], [[Philippines]], Southern [[China]] typhoon, October 2012; Eastern [[United States]] hurricane October, 2012. All of these natural events disrupted people's lives, even changing them forever. In the recovery stages after natural disasters, people's basic needs don't change: they still need clean water, food, safety, and shelter. In the bleakest situations, solar thermal power can begin to meet two important needs: a solar oven can [[pasteurize water]] and cook food. If you are an experienced solar cook, please contact people in your circle of influence in these affected areas. Share your knowledge of solar cooker construction and use with people who need it most. This YouTube video shows solar cooking done in the snow after power was lost in northern Virginia in a February 2010 storm.

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[[File:Jeff_Waalkes_Afghan_woman,_10-18-12.jpg|right|300px]]

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*'''Parabolic solar cookers delivered to Afghanistan's remote Wakhan Corridor''' - The Kirghiz tribe live at the end of this slender finger of land in northeastern [[Afghanistan]]. Their primary fuel source for cooking has been dried yak dung, creating smoky conditions in their yurts. The buffalo-like yaks are used for most of their transportation needs. In June, [[Jeff Waalkes]] in [[Kirghizstan]] and [[Grace Magney]] with the [[Global Hope Network]] in Kabul were able to deliver ten [[parabolic solar cooker]]s to the tribe. Grace organized the procurement and had the cookers loaded onto a truck. Jeff's responsibility was to get the truck into the Wakhan Corridor, and where the road petered out, strap everything including the solar cookers to the backs of yaks to deliver them to the Kirghiz. Initially hesitant, members of the tribe were soon cooking food and boiling water. See more of Jeff's [[Global_Hope_Network_International#News_and_recent_developments|photos of the delivery]].

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*'''Global conservation organization adopts solar cooking resolution sponsored by Solar Household Energy''' - The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has embraced a strong resolution sponsored by [[Solar Household Energy]] calling for increased support for solar cooking efforts worldwide. The measure was adopted in September at IUCN’s quadrennial World Conservation Congress in Jeju, [[South Korea]]. The organization recognized the health hazards of cooking over biomass fires, and the availability of current solar cooking technologies. Efforts continue to develop solar cookers that offer increased efficiency, are cost-effective to produce and distribute, and are sturdy enough to withstand extended use. [http://www.she-inc.org/art.php?id=149 Read more...]

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[[File:Great_picture_of_oven_activity.jpeg|thumb|300px|Students set a world record baking cookies with solar ovens to raise funds for solar cooking efforts in [[Haiti]].]]

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[[File:Traveling_Solar_Oven_2,_11-12-12.jpg|thumb|160px|[http://powerfromthesun.us/signup/ Sign up for the Traveling Solar Oven.]]]

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*'''Students set a world record and bring awareness to the benefits of solar cooking''' - Students, parents, faculty, staff and friends gathered at Miami Country Day School located in Miami, {{state|Florida}}, [[USA]] on Friday, April 20, 2012 and set the Guinness Book of World Records™ for “The Most Cookies Baked in One Hour Using Solar Ovens”. Trays of unbaked cookies were placed in 40 smaller solar ovens, as well as, two [[Villager]] solar ovens. After the cookies were baked and 1225 counted....a World Record was set! The event raised over $18,000 USD, which was used to send the 40 solar ovens and a Villager oven to [[Haiti]]. The cookies baked in the event were donated to Feeding South Florida. The event was lead by [[Matthew Cohen]], a high school junior who has been actively involved in the solar oven movement for the past nine years. Cohen launched the website [http://powerfromthesun.us/ Power from the Sun] to educate people worldwide on the benefits of solar cooking and help raise money to send solar ovens to needy families in Haiti. Cohen’s latest project is aptly named “The Life Of The Traveling Solar Oven” and encourages students, parents, teachers, and local businesses to sponsor a solar oven. Participants are asked to use the solar oven, document their experience with video or photos and share it on their facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/PowerFromTheSun. The event will conclude on Earth Day 2013.

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For older news, please see [[Solar cooking news archive]].

==Contact==

==Contact==

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*For questions and comments about the Solar Cookers World Network or its website (this wiki), contact [mailto:webmaster@solarcooking.org webmaster@solarcooking.org].

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*For questions and comments about the [[Solar Cookers International Network]] (SCInet) or its website (this wiki), contact [mailto:webmaster@solarcooking.org webmaster@solarcooking.org].

Apply for the BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards:Solar Cookers International has a unique opportunity to nominate projects from SCInet members for the 2015 BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards. The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards seek to recognize and encourage world-class research and artistic creation, awarding contributions of lasting impact for their originality, theoretical significance, and ability to push back the frontiers of the known world. For consideration for nomination, please email Solar Cookers International with the Subject Line “BBVA Awards” for nomination instructions. Final applications must be received no later than May 1, 2015. All materials must be in English. Read more...

EVENT: International Solar Energy Society webinar on Solar Food Processing for Income Generation - On March 11, the International Solar Energy Society (ISES) will be hosting a webinar on how solar food processing can be used for income generation. "Expert speakers will show examples of how solar food processing can be a profitable business venture. The panelist speakers will present case studies where individuals and companies use solar cooking techniques to earn their living and have made a successful and professional business." Presenters include:

Apply for the SEED Award - The SEED Awards recognize "the most promising, innovative and locally-led start-up social and environmental enterprises in countries with developing and emerging economies. The independent SEED International Jury of experts selects enterprises which have the potential to make real improvements in poverty eradication and environmental sustainability while contributing to a greener economy." Apply by March 31, 2015. Read more...

Celebrity chef José Andrés wants to cook cleaner this year - Writing in National Geographic, José Andrés discusses his New Year's Resolutions which include the goal to "cook cleaner"! Read article...

Solar Cooking in the Sahel - NOWCAST

Available sunshine in the Sahel region of Africa documented - Authors, Beth Newton, Sophie Cowie, Derk Rijks, Jamie Banks, Helen Brindley, and John h. Marsham have published a well-documented analysis of the potential sunshine available for solar cooking in the Sahel region, particularly in northern Chad where a number of Sudanese refugee camps are located. TchadSolaire has been training both refugees and the indigenous population to solar cook in the region since 2005. Even along river population centers where clouds tend to form, solar cooking is possible for over 330 days a year. Read more: Solar Cooking in the Sahel - NOWCAST

Thousands of students gather in Mumbai, India for a record-breaking solar cooking event.

15,000 students in Mumbai solar cook and set world-record - In an event organized by Keshav Srushti, 15,000 students from 80 schools in Mumbai, India set a new world record for the largest-ever solar cooking gathering. Each student was given a solar cooker and taught how to assemble and use it as part of a national campaign to spread awareness of the importance of solar technology. C Vidyasagar Rao, governor of Maharashtra and Ashish Shelar, minister of state, Power, Coal & New Renewable Energy, attended the record-setting gathering. Read more at: Over 15,000 students create a new world-record in solar cooking

Latest Nasa data shows elevated CO2 levels over Africa and South America - According to this BBC article, "Also apparent are the higher concentrations over South America and southern Africa. These are likely the result of biomass burning in these regions."

Solar Cookers International remembers Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis - As co-founder of Jewish World Watch, Rabbi Schulweis was a visionary behind efforts like the Solar Cooker Project to empower and protect refugee women fleeing the Darfur crisis. He will be missed. His obituary is available online.

José Andrés details his use of solar cookers at Life is Beautiful event in National Geographic - In an article for National Geographic, Chef José Andrés writes about his pop-up restaurant, Sunny Day, which he opened at the Life is Beatufiul event in Las Vegas, NV. Sunny Day used solar cookers to cook their signature dish, vegetarian tacos, during the day and clean-burining ethanol in the evening. Read article...

Lapin Kulta Solar Kitchen Restaurant featured in The Guardian - Lapin Kulta Solar Kitchen Restaurant, the traveling solar restaurant from Catalan designer Martí Guixé, Chef Antto Melasniemi and Lapin Kulta beer, was featured in an article in The Guardian as an innovative user of solar energy. The piece discusses the journey of this experimental solar restaurant, including how they were able to cook in Finland in -15°C. Also featured are new innovations in photovoltaic technology, a new apartment in Hamburg, Germany which grows algae for fuel with solar energy, and simple method for water disinfection. Read article...

Another business uses solar cooking to prepare their product - New-member Bjorn Qorn located in New York, USA, has created a large In-the-ground solar cooker to cook their locally-harvested corn for sale as popcorn.